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Scientists streamline method for making key virus

A new study at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has streamlined a method for making large quantities of human papillomavirus, a major human pathogen. The technique allows scientists to culture any of the virus's 100 subtypes and genetically manipulate it, enabling faster development of therapeutic drugs and new vaccines.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 13, 2005

New insights into skin blistering disease pop up

Scientists have made a significant breakthrough in understanding pemphigus, a deadly skin blistering disease. Researchers engineered antibodies that reproduce the disease in vitro and in mice, offering a new opportunity for targeted therapy development.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 24, 2005

JCI table of contents, November 15 2004

Researchers discovered a complete deficiency in the CD3 epsilon chain of the T cell receptor causes SCID, leading to normal B cells but no T cells development. The absence of this chain blocks T cell development at a specific stage in the thymus.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 15, 2004

Could skin cells become brain cells?

Researchers have successfully generated nerve precursor cells from adult skin cells using a two-step process involving soluble agents called growth factors. This breakthrough raises the possibility of generating nerve cells from an individual's own skin cells, overcoming issues of rejection.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 8, 2004

The key to cell motility

Scientists Gary Bokoch and colleagues discovered the mechanism by which Rac is released from RhoGDI, revealing a critical role for p21-activated kinase (Pak) in regulating cell motility. This breakthrough offers insights into tumor growth, immune responses, and neurological diseases.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 1, 2004

Drinking through your pelvic region?

A new study investigates blood flow in toads' pelvic skin while absorbing water, finding a significant increase in red cell velocity prior to water exposure and a seven-fold increase within one minute. The results support the initial hypothesis that increased blood flow is associated with water absorption behavior.

Tanning devices may contribute to incidence of common skin cancers

A new study found that individuals who used tanning devices were 2.5 times more likely to develop squamous cell carcinoma and 1.5 times more likely to develop basal cell carcinoma compared to those who did not use them. The risk of these cancers increased with the age at which participants started using tanning devices.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 5, 2002

Novel protein is both ion channel and enzyme

Researchers have discovered a new protein component that controls calcium entry into cells and activates itself and other proteins, making it a potential new drug target for diseases like cancer and heart conditions. The protein, TRP-PLIK, is present in many tissues and its unique dual function has sparked interest among scientists.

Study provides new details of 'the birth of a virus'

Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute uncovered how retroviruses like HIV make their escape from infected cells by using ubiquitin and a viral segment called the late domain. This study sheds light on previously unknown aspects of viral assembly and budding, potentially leading to new techniques for arresting viral spread.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 20, 2000

Carolina scientists the first to identify and purify liver stem cells

Carolina scientists have identified and purified hepatic stem cells, which can regenerate liver and bile duct tissue. The accomplishment marks a milestone for future liver regeneration through cellular therapy, potentially reducing the need for whole-organ transplants in patients with various liver diseases.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 13, 2000

Driving differentiation of human embryonic stem cells

Researchers at Howard Hughes Medical Institute successfully directed human embryonic stem cells to differentiate into three germ layers: ectodermal (brain, skin), mesodermal (muscle) and endodermal (liver and pancreas). The study suggests that a combination of growth factors may be needed to achieve specific cell lineages.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 9, 2000

Scientists decipher the 'zip codes' that direct cells in the bloodstream to bodily tissues where they're needed

Researchers have identified key molecules on the surface of blood cells that guide them to their rightful targets in the body's tissues. This process, known as cell trafficking, is crucial for the proper function of the immune response and helps prevent cancerous cells from spreading.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 25, 2000